Tehran Movie Review: John Abraham’s Tehran — A Gripping Deshbhakti Thriller Without the Usual Patriotic Chants

Some films are worth the waiting and watching, and Tehran is one of them. It is a smart emotionally layered thriller with grounded storytelling. It’s a stark departure from the typical, over-the-top action films, opting instead for a gritty, geopolitical narrative inspired by a real-world event: the 2012 attack on Israeli diplomats in India.

The story begins with a powerful bomb blast in Delhi, which shatters the life of DCP Rajeev Kumar (John Abraham) once he interacted with one of the victims. What starts as a local investigation spirals into a lethal web of international politics, secret operations, and the long-standing hostilities found between Iran and Israel, with India caught precariously in the middle.

John Abraham delivers one of his most raw and honest performances to date, shedding his usual action-hero persona for a character who is broken and deeply human. The supporting cast is equally strong: Manushi Chhillar brings crucial strength to her role as SI Divya Rana, Neeru Bajwa gracefully portrays the delicate balancing act of a diplomat, and Hadi Khajanpour is chillingly effective as the calm, terrifying suspect.

The writing, by Ritesh Shah, Ashish P. Verma, and Bindni Karia, is a standout. The film avoids telling you what to think, instead presenting a complex situation and letting the audience feel the tension and confusion. The honest and intelligent portrayal of India’s diplomatic tightrope is a rarity in commercial cinema.

The action scenes are not for entertainment; they are raw and realistic, designed to make you feel the pressure and fear of the situation. This grounded approach makes the film far more thrilling than any stylized set-piece.

Directed with a keen eye for detail, the cinematography is sharp and atmospheric, capturing the stark beauty of its varied locations. The background score by Ketan Sodha supports the narrative without overpowering it, and tight editing keeps the pace relentless.When Rajeev goes rogue after realizing the system won’t back him, the film shifts into even more dangerous territory.

Tehran is a film for those who appreciate smart, emotionally deep, and authentic thrillers. With top-notch performances and a story that refuses to take the easy way out, it stands tall as one of the most impressive Indian thrillers in recent memory. So, what are you waiting for, go catch it on Zee5.